Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CD2087G3-LI2UY
Hikvision DS-2CD2087G3-LI2UY (2.8 mm)is an 8 MP (4K) fixed mini-bullet IP camera designed for outdoor surveillance where full-colour night imaging and accurate analytics are important. Combining Hikvisions ColorVu 3.0 technology with a Smart Hybrid Light system (integrated IR and warm white light), this compact metal-bodied camera aims to deliver evidence-grade colour images in very low light while offering modern network and deep-learning features such as person/vehicle classification and face capture. With PoE support, robust ingress protection (IP67 and NEMA 4X) and a super-aperture F1.0 lens, its positioned as a versatile choice for perimeter, retail and critical infrastructure applications.
Key features at a glance
- 8 MP resolution (3840 D7 2160) at up to 30 fps for detailed imagery
- ColorVu 3.0: full-colour imaging down to 0.0005 Lux (F1.0); 0 Lux with light
- Smart Hybrid Light: automatic IR and warm white light switching, supplemental range up to 40 m
- Deep-learning analytics: person/vehicle classification, face capture, perimeter protection
- Power options: PoE (IEEE 802.3af, Class 3) or 12 VDC; typical power draw ≈ 7 W
- Durable outdoors: IP67 and NEMA 4X; operating temperatures C to 60C
- On-board storage: microSD up to 512 GB, plus NAS support and ANR
Detailed specifications and the benefits they deliver
The DS-2CD2087G3-LI2UY uses a 1/1.8" progressive scan CMOS sensor to capture 8 MP (3840 D7 2160) video at up to 30 fps. The camera is fitted with a super-aperture F1.0 lens (shown here in the 2.8 mm option) that maximizes light collection. The wide field of view (H: 108.8 for 2.8 mm) and the shallow depth-of-field characteristics make this model particularly effective for wide-area surveillance where scene coverage and object detail are both priorities.
Benefit: higher resolution and a fast aperture produce clearer, more identifiable colour images in low light than many conventional outdoor cameras, which helps evidence capture and post-event analysis.
ColorVu 3.0 enables colour imaging down to 0.0005 Lux at F1.0 and allows true-colour captures even in very dark conditions when the warm white light is active (0 Lux with light). The Smart Hybrid Light system automatically switches between IR illumination and warm white light depending on scene and detection needs, extending illumination range to roughly 40 m when required.
Benefit: users get the advantages of full-colour images for identification (faces, clothing, vehicle colours) combined with IR fallback for stealth or when colour light would be undesirable. Automatic hybrid control also optimizes image quality without manual adjustments.
Video compression supports H.265 and H.264 with multiple streams and region-of-interest (ROI) options. Deep-learning algorithms run on the camera to classify people and vehicles, capture faces, and enable perimeter protection events with higher accuracy and fewer false alarms compared with basic motion detection. Audio is supported via a built-in arrayed dual microphone and common codecs (G.711, AAC-LC, MP3).
Storage can be local via microSD (up to 512 GB), or network-based NAS (NFS, SMB/CIFS) with ANR to preserve video during network interruptions.
Benefit: on-camera analytics reduce the burden on recording systems and operators and help generate actionable alerts, while flexible storage options ensure reliable retention of important evidence.
The camera supports ONVIF Profiles S/G/T plus standard networking protocols, and modern security features such as HTTPS, 802.1X and TLS (1.1/1.2/1.3). The metal body, compact dimensions (approx. Ø74.4 D7 176.3 mm) and operating range from C to 60C make it suitable for many outdoor environments. Ingress protection ratings of IP67 and NEMA 4X mean it resists dust, heavy rain and even some corrosive conditions.
Benefit: a secure, durable device for outdoor deployments that integrates with standard VMS and network architectures.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
- Perimeter and campus security: Wide field of view and colour night imaging improve detection and identification along fences, gates and building exteriors.
- Retail and storefronts: Colour imaging at night supports loss prevention and identification of suspects or vehicles after hours when store lighting may be minimal.
- Parking lots and driveways: The hybrid light extends useful illumination to capture license plates, vehicle colours and driver actions even in dark conditions.
- Residential and small-business sites: Compact form factor and PoE power make it straightforward to add 4K-capable monitoring without elaborate wiring.
- Transportation hubs and critical infrastructure: Deep-learning perimeter protection and face capture help automate alerts at sensitive entry points while reducing false alarms from pets or foliage.
- Evidence-grade surveillance: 8 MP resolution combined with colour night imaging provides more usable forensic detail than standard IR monochrome footage.
How it compares with similar products on the market
Traditional IR cameras switch to monochrome night mode and rely solely on IR illumination. These produce good contrast but lose colour information that can be critical for identification (for example, vehicle colour or clothing). The Hikvision ColorVu approach retains colour at very low light levels and uses a warm white light when needed, providing more context in captured footage. The Smart Hybrid Light also improves flexibility by switching modes automatically.
Many outdoor mini-bullets offer 2MP to 5MP resolutions; an 8 MP (4K) sensor provides a significant step-up in detail. Compared with lower-resolution 4 MP/5 MP models, the DS-2CD2087G3-LI2UY captures more pixels per object, allowing digital zooming and better identification. The F1.0 super-aperture lens sets it apart from cameras with smaller apertures, giving stronger low-light performance.
Where some budget cameras provide only motion or basic tamper detection, this models deep-learning analytics enable more reliable person/vehicle classification, face capture and perimeter protection. That reduces false alarms and increases the value of alerts for security teams.
With a suggested retail price of US$219.99, this camera aims at the higher end of the compact outdoor camera category but remains competitive given its 4K resolution, advanced illumination system and analytics. For organizations prioritizing true-colour nighttime evidence and lower false-alarm rates, the incremental cost is often justified.
Customer testimonials and user impressions
Supplier-provided customer reviews were not included with the product data. Based on typical feedback for similar Hikvision ColorVu models and installer reports, common user impressions include:
- "Noticeably clearer night images" installers and end users report that colour footage captured under low-light conditions makes it much easier to identify vehicle colours and clothing compared with IR-only cameras.
- "Easy PoE installation" integrators appreciate PoE support for simplified power and networking, particularly for multi-camera installs.
- "Analytics reduce false alerts" teams using perimeter protection note a reduction in nuisance alarms from animals and lighting changes thanks to person/vehicle classification.
- "Robust outdoors" customers in harsh climates value the IP67/NEMA 4X rating and the cameras thermal tolerance for year-round operation.
Note: These summaries are synthesized impressions representative of customer feedback for ColorVu-equipped Hikvision cameras and integrator experience; prospective buyers should check retailer reviews or request demo footage for real-world validation.
Installation and practical considerations
The camera supports PoE (IEEE 802.3af) for single-cable installations; 12 VDC is available where PoE is not provided. On-board microSD saves footage locally up to 512 GB, which can be useful for edge recording or redundancy. For legal and safety reasons, installation should comply with local electrical and CCTV regulations; if unsure, engage a qualified installer.
Also consider placement to take advantage of the Smart Hybrid Light without causing glare in adjacent areas, and configure analytics zones to focus alerts on priority areas (gates, loading bays, walkways) to reduce low-priority notifications.
Conclusion: Why the DS-2CD2087G3-LI2UY is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2087G3-LI2UY merges high-resolution 4K imaging with advanced low-light colour capability and intelligent on-camera analytics in a compact, weatherproof package. For anyone needing reliable identification at night—retailers, property managers, campus security teams and integrators—the combination of ColorVu 3.0, Smart Hybrid Light and deep-learning analytics makes this model stand out versus standard IR-only cameras or lower-resolution alternatives. With flexible power options (PoE or 12 VDC), local and network storage options, and modern security protocols, it integrates well into contemporary IP CCTV systems.
Practical buyers should verify warranty details with the supplier, request sample footage where possible, and consider the cameras suggested price (US$219.99) in the context of the value gained from colour-night evidence and reduced false alarms. For deployments where night-time colour information and reliable analytics matter, the DS-2CD2087G3-LI2UY is a compelling, purpose-built choice.
